In many areas of the country, now is a tough time to be flipping houses.

This is why Memphis is being purchased by out of state and country investors.

However, the Chicago Metro area is still growing and I foresee it in 20-30 years covering all of Northern Eastern Illinois in a semi-circle from the Rockford/Beloit area curving down to Kankakee and then upwards through NW Indiana.

Since they are used to dealing with out of country investors they could be a good resource for you if you're interested.

The Norris Group has been making a big push in that direction but I am a little too far our for The Norris Group (eastern Kern County) but I am hoping to find a lender in Bakersfield or southern central valley with a similar program.

Great point, Will...I forgot to mention in my post that I'm in one of the cheapest real estate markets in terms of labor...you can double my prices in many areas of the country, and in high priced areas (CA, NYC, etc), you can triple them or more...As Will said, averages are meaningless...

If you were in So Cal, and not other side of country, I could take a look for you.

Happy and prosperous New Year all BPers on Eastern Time Zone!

Those that live in foreign countries, feel free to jump in also about your area."

Cheers, Let me know when you come to wine country. :-)